Density Calculator

Calculate density, mass, or volume using density = mass/volume.

kg
m3
Guides & Reference

How It Works

Calculates density (mass per unit volume): D = Mass ÷ Volume. Density determines if an object floats (less dense than water = 1.0 g/cm³) or sinks.

Formula

density = m / V

Quick Reference

Common calculations — results you can verify instantly.

Water

1g per cm³

1.0 g/cm³

Iron

7.87g per cm³

7.87 g/cm³ (sinks)

Ice

0.92g per cm³

0.92 g/cm³ (floats)

Tips & Shortcuts

Water density = 1.0 g/cm³ at 4°C. Objects less dense than this float.

Air density ≈ 0.0012 g/cm³. Iron = 7.87 g/cm³. Gold = 19.3 g/cm³.

Density changes with temperature — most materials expand when heated, reducing density.

Common Mistakes

Mixing up mass and weight in density calculations

Density uses mass (kg or g), not weight (force). Use a scale that measures in grams.

Using inconsistent units

If mass is in grams and volume in mL, density is g/mL = g/cm³. Keep units consistent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Water displacement method: submerge the object in water and measure the volume increase. That volume equals the object volume.

Ice (0.92 g/cm³) is less dense than liquid water (1.0 g/cm³) — unusual for a solid. The hexagonal crystal structure of ice creates a less compact arrangement.

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